The best road cycling routes around Belleek

Saint Patrick and Saint Colman's Cathedral is the architectural jewel of Newry and one of Ireland's most impressive Neo-Gothic structures. Construction began in 1825, and upon its completion in 1829, the cathedral made history as the first Catholic cathedral to open in Ireland following the repeal of the penal laws (Catholic Emancipation). Built from local granite from the nearby Mourne Mountains, this edifice exudes a robust yet elegant power. The cathedral is world-renowned for its fabulous interior: the walls and ceiling are adorned with colourful mosaics, meticulously applied by hand by Italian master craftsmen in the early 20th century. For the cyclist, this is not only a visual highlight along the route but also a place of serene tranquility. Its detailed stained-glass windows and monumental tower make it one of the city's most photographed locations and a worthy endpoint (or starting point) for your tour along the Newry Canal Towpath.

Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.

Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.

Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva

Here, too, passersby encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town. Everywhere in the villages and towns, victims were mourned during the terrible wars (especially, but not only, in the first half of the last century) – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their fatherland far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.

Here, too, hikers and walkers will encounter a "war memorial" in the center of town, as throughout the villages and towns, victims of the terrible wars (especially in the first half of the last century) were mourned – often young people who had to endure suffering and pain and ultimately paid with their own lives for their service to their country far from home. Their names are always inscribed on the respective memorial to at least keep the memory alive.

gravel paths and a tarmac road up the middle, also has public toilets

The small town of Scarva, nestled between green meadows and the quiet canal, offers a welcome break on my bike tour through Northern Ireland. Here you cycle on well-maintained paths past historic bridges and small villages that give you the feeling that time has stood still. The British flags fluttering along the side of the road remind you that you are in a culturally special area - a detail that reflects the identity of the region. The route is easy to cycle, the surrounding landscape is gently rolling, which makes for pleasant cycling. The view of wide fields and rolling hills invites you to slow down now and then and take in the peace and quiet. A special feature of Scarva is the annual Orange Order March, which transforms the village into a kind of open-air stage once a year and keeps the traditions of this region alive.